August 22, 2025
Bangkok’s street food scene is about to get a major upgrade. Set to open in early 2026, the Lumpini Park Hawker Centre will bring together some of the city’s favourite vendors under one roof, right next to the iconic Lumpini Park.
Construction began in June 2025 and is being led by the Department of Public Works. The goal is simple: to create a cleaner, safer, and better-organised space for both vendors and diners while maintaining the lively spirit of Bangkok’s street food culture.
Located along Ratchadamri Road at Gate 5 of Lumpini Park, the hawker centre is designed to host up to 88 vendors per shift, each working from compact 2×2 metre stalls.
The centre will operate two shifts daily:
Vendors who were displaced from recent sidewalk clearances, particularly along Sarasin Road, will be given priority in stall allocation. This initiative aims to support the city’s small food businesses while improving accessibility for both locals and tourists.
The Lumpini Park Hawker Centre will focus on natural ventilation to keep the space cool without relying on air-conditioning. Its low-reflective roof is designed to reduce glare for the nearby King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, and all trees affected by construction are being safely relocated within Lumpini Park until completion.
The design draws inspiration from modern urban food hubs, balancing sustainability with functionality while keeping the spotlight on Bangkok’s vibrant food culture.
This project is part of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s broader effort to improve hygiene, public safety, and walkability across the city. It also takes cues from Singapore’s hawker centre model, where food vendors operate in a structured, well-managed environment.
However, some food lovers worry that Bangkok’s famous chaotic charm could be at risk. Street food here has always been spontaneous and alive, and the challenge lies in preserving that energy while introducing more order.
With early 2026 as the target opening, the Lumpini Park Hawker Centre is set to become a new hotspot for both locals and visitors. Whether you are hunting for late-night noodles or an early-morning bowl of jok, this space promises to bring together the city’s favourite flavours in one convenient, central location while staying true to what makes Bangkok’s street food special.
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